The Royal Lao Government in Exile, founded by supporters of the Lao monarchy and anti-communist forces, is as colorful and intriguing as the country’s rich history. Based primarily in the U.S. and France, this government-in-exile still claims legitimacy, though it functions more as a symbolic resistance than a real political threat to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The Three Princes of Laos
At the heart of Lao political legend are the “Three Princes.” In the 1950s, Laos was governed under a unique, if unstable, tripartite system. Prince Souvanna Phouma was the neutralist, Prince Souphanouvong led the Pathet Lao communists, and Prince Boun Oum was the royalist. For a while, this delicate arrangement held, as each prince played his part in a country divided by foreign interests and the Cold War. But by the mid-1970s, the communist faction seized control, and the Royal Lao Government found itself exiled, left to dream of a comeback.
You can read about the Three Princes here.
The Rebellious Days
The exiled government has tried to shake things up a few times. The most notable attempt came in the late 1990s when the Royal Lao Government in Exile attempted to stage an attack against the Lao PDR. The so-called “Vang Pao Plot” saw an ex-general from the CIA-backed Hmong forces and a group of die-hard royalists attempt to arm themselves for an uprising. It was a failed coup, foiled before they even got off the ground—but it showed the group’s intent to restore the monarchy in Laos.
The Throne: A Waiting Game
The exiled royal family has not seen the throne in Laos for decades, but they continue to hold onto the idea that the monarchy could one day be restored. Today, the pretender to the Lao throne is Crown Prince Soulivong Savang. He resides abroad, carrying on the symbolic legacy of the Lao monarchy with dignity and hope for a democratic Laos that embraces its royal heritage. Although his “kingdom” might be a network of exiles and sympathizers, he remains committed to the Lao cause.
You can read about Bangkok to Vientiane by land here.
The Legacy and Ongoing Symbolism
Despite the years, the Royal Lao Government in Exile maintains its role as a custodian of Lao culture and royal history, actively engaging in humanitarian and cultural work among the Lao diaspora. While the Lao PDR remains firmly in control, the royalists in exile cling to their dreams, ever hopeful that the tides of history might one day return them to the banks of the Mekong. For now, they remain a reminder of Laos’ complex political past and the enduring power of tradition among its people.
You can check out our Laos Tours here.
About Post Author
